Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Wickes, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, there’s a good chance you’re facing daily challenges that affect your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we know how these injuries can affect your life and well-being. Our expert physical therapy team in Wickes, MO is ready to provide the personalized care necessary to feel like your old self again. With our extensive experience in rotator cuff tear treatment, we’ll help you get back to the activities you love, whether that’s participating in sports, working, spending time with your children, or simply living pain-free.

You’re welcome to come to any of our locations for a free injury screening, request an appointment online, or reach out to the Axes location nearest you to start your path to recovery.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff forms an important component of the shoulder’s anatomy, including four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. They function in unison to stabilize the shoulder joint and provide for a wide range of motions, like lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears can vary in severity, and how severe your tear is will direct your treatment approach and recovery timeline. The two main types of tears comprise:

1. Partial Tears: This happens when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. Though still painful and restrictive, partial tears generally respond favorably to conservative treatments such as physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: During a full-thickness tear, the tendon separates from the bone, often demanding more intensive treatment. This type of tear can cause significant weakness in the shoulder and are more likely to require surgical intervention. A partial full-thickness tear means there is still some of the tendon attached to the bone. A full-thickness complete tear is when the tendon fully detaches from the bone.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Recognizing the common causes of rotator cuff tears could help you avoid injury or spot issues early:

• Acute Injuries: Quick, forceful actions, like lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, can lead to an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: Over time, repetitive stress from activities including painting, lifting, or sports can wear down the tendons, resulting in a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: With aging, the tendons gradually weaken, raising the likelihood of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Recognizing the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear plays a vital role in seeking timely treatment. Typical symptoms may include:

• Ongoing shoulder pain, most notably at night or when lying on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
• Limited range of motion, especially when lifting the arm or reaching overhead.
• A crackling sensation or audible popping when moving the shoulder.

Understanding these symptoms and the underlying anatomy helps explain why prompt treatment is important to avoid further damage and for restoring normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Wickes, MO

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in effectively managing a rotator cuff tear. The earlier you identify the issue, the better the chances of a full recovery without invasive procedures. Should you already have a diagnosis by a physician, we’ll partner with you and your Wickes, MO doctor to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome possible.

You can also come to any Axes location for a free injury screening. We start with a thorough physical examination to check your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If necessary, we may suggest imaging tests such as an MRI or ultrasound to capture a detailed view of the injury.

The Direct Access Physical Therapy laws in both Missouri and Illinois enable us to evaluate and diagnose you, start your treatment, and perform several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Wickes, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Wickes, MO

Rotator cuff tears aren’t always surgical cases; in many cases, non-surgical treatments can effectively alleviate pain and return shoulder function to normal. At Axes Physical Therapy, we prioritize personalized, conservative care that focuses on your specific needs.

Wickes, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is commonly the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists design personalized treatment plans to fortify the muscles surrounding the shoulder, enhance flexibility, and minimize pain. This is how physical therapy benefits:

• Strengthening: Targeted workouts to build the muscles around the rotator cuff, to prevent further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching routines to enhance the range of motion and minimize stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Methods like manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Effective pain management is vital for recovery. Based on the severity of your symptoms, we may suggest a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Ice helps reduce inflammation, while heat increases blood flow and soothes muscles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: For severe symptoms, injections could be used to alleviate pain and inflammation, although this is typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Limiting activities that aggravate your shoulder is important during the healing process. Our Wickes, MO physical therapists will advise you on how to alter your daily activities to avoid strain, while still maintaining some level of physical activity to support healing.

Being consistent is essential in non-surgical treatment. Adhering to your physical therapy regimen, making it to all your sessions, and performing prescribed exercises at home are important for your recovery. Our team at Axes is here to support you at every stage, ensuring you stay on track for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Wickes, MO

In cases where non-surgical treatments aren’t effective enough, or if the rotator cuff tear is particularly severe, surgery might be required. Surgical options are different depending on the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures may involve:

• Arthroscopy: A less invasive procedure where small instruments are used to repair the tear.
• Open Repair: A standard procedure for larger or more complex tears.
• Tendon Transfer: Required when the tendon is too damaged to be repaired.

No matter which surgery is performed, physical therapy is essential before as well as after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy can strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is necessary for regaining strength, mobility, and function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we design individualized rehab programs to support a smooth and successful recovery.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Wickes, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear differs depending on whether your injury required surgery or not. For non-surgical treatments, recovery may take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery often requires a longer period, generally 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.

Consistent physical therapy is essential to a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Wickes, MO physical therapists assist you through a tailored rehabilitation program designed to bringing back strength, flexibility, and mobility. Our therapists deliver ongoing support and plan adjustments, ensuring you make steady progress.

To maximize your recovery, it’s crucial to do your recommended exercises, attend all therapy sessions, and make necessary lifestyle modifications to protect your shoulder. Whether you are recovering from surgery or treating a tear through non-surgical means, our team is dedicated to guiding you to the best possible recovery and resume your usual activities. We’ll also instruct you in injury prevention techniques so you can continue being active without pain.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Rotator Cuff Tear in Wickes, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of highly skilled physical therapists is dedicated to providing individualized care adapted to each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are skilled in helping Wickes, MO patients recover from rotator cuff tears and restore their strength and mobility. We focus on a compassionate, supportive approach, working to ensure every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our personalized treatment plans are intended to bring about the best possible outcomes and resume the activities you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Wickes, MO

When you’re facing a rotator cuff tear, don’t delay your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team create a personalized treatment plan to help you return to the activities you enjoy. Uncertain if you have a tear? Take advantage of our free injury screening, to assess your symptoms and recommend the best path forward. Reach out to the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Wickes.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are devoted to guiding you through the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and return to your daily activities with confidence. Our experienced team delivers compassionate, individualized care focused on meeting your unique needs. Whether via non-surgical options or post-surgical rehabilitation, we are here to help you at every stage. Don’t let shoulder pain stop you—contact us today to begin your journey to recovery.